The University of Providence in Great Falls is partnering with Benefis Health System to launch the “Boost UP for Nurses” program.
The University of Providence launched the Vander Werff Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program last fall. The Dean of the School of Health Professions, Dr. Joseph Cameron, said since starting the BSN program they have seen an increase in interest.
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“The amount of attention garnered by the launch of the program has really generated the kind of grassroots interest that we've expected,” Cameron said. “Applications are up and we're able to admit many more students.”
He continued, “The Boost UP for Nurses program is a loan forgiveness education program sponsored by Benefis hospital. Its goal is to help reduce the financial burden on students and attract more talented people into the field of nursing.”
“After they graduate [from the University of Providence], they will have the opportunity to be employed through Benefis Health System and then will have the opportunity to repay that loan in a four-year period through [employment],” said Mackenzie Stick, VP of enrollment management at the university.
The university provided this overview of the "Boost UP For Nurses" program:
Students accepted into UP’s Vander Werff BSN program will be eligible to apply for the Boost for UP Nurses Program. Once approved, students may receive up to $30,000 paid in $15,000 increments over the final two semesters of the student’s time in the Vander Werff BSN program. Students who work at Benefis as registered nurses after graduation will receive forgiveness on their loan over a four-year period.
Benefis wants to address, and tackle head-on, the nursing shortage that is affecting the nation.
Rayn Ginatty, president of Benefis Great Falls Hospitals, explained, "Right now, we need as many nurses in the state that we can possibly get and so by having a loan forgiveness opportunity for these individuals, for people who are interested in health care is something that we can do in our local community to help increase those individuals that may be interested in going to nursing school,” Ginatty said.
For more information, visit the Providence website.
